Regional Weather
Chinook Winds Explained: Warm Downslope Winds and Rapid Snowmelt
How Chinook winds warm and dry as they descend mountains, why temperatures can jump quickly, and what hazards they can create.
Quick answer: Chinook winds are warm, dry downslope winds that can raise temperatures quickly on the lee side of mountains.
The downslope process
Air crossing mountains can lose moisture on the windward side, then warm as it descends on the lee side.
The result can be a sudden warm, dry wind.
Weather impacts
Chinooks can melt snow rapidly, create icy refreeze later, dry fuels, and produce strong gusts.
They can also create sharp temperature contrasts over short distances.
Planning use
Watch for high wind alerts, rapid snowmelt, and changing road conditions after temperatures fall again.
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